
Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida
Exploring Nusa Islands - Guide to Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida , Bali
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An easy 30-minute boat ride from Sanur lie Bali’s smaller sister islands — Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida.
Home to breathtaking coastal scenery and the kind of beaches you see in travel magazines, they make lovely short getaways from the mainland.
If you’re strapped for time, day trips are possible too (at least to Lembongan), but we recommend staying at least a night for the best experience.

Where to Stay in Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida , Bali
Over the past couple of years, the Nusa islands have really stepped up a gear in terms of accommodation.
Nusa Lembongan probably still has the most diverse selection of stays, but Ceningan and Penida are fast catching up. As well as the original beach bungalows, there are now beautiful resorts, private ocean-view villas, and boutique hotels.
And if you book ahead or during quieter times, there are many bargains to be had!
Luxury Hotels in Nusa Lembongan
Mid-Range Hotels in Nusa Lembongan
Budget Stays in Nusa Lembongan
Know Where to Go for Food and Drinks in Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida
Lembongan, the most developed of the islands, has the greatest array of dining and drinking options. You’ll find sleek cocktail bars overlooking the bay, international-standard restaurants and beach clubs, and local eats aplenty.
Penida and Ceningan are slightly quieter, though you’ll still find the odd clifftop cocktail bar and western eatery.
No matter where you go, you’ll see fresh seafood on the menu. Grilled local fish, served with rice and sambal (chopped chilli condiment) is a must try. It’s cheap and delicious!
Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida on Our Blog
Things to Do in Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida
Unsurprisingly, a lot of the activity on these islands centres around the ocean. Swimming, surfing, snorkelling, and diving are all popular pursuits here.
Dream Beach on Lembongan is just one of many beauty spots, with a powdery soft sand, a tropical outlook, and beach bars serving cold beers. Also on Lembongan is Devil’s Tears, a rocky cove and sunset spot where the ocean smashes dramatically against the cliff.
The larger island of Nusa Penida is an adventure lover’s paradise. It’s renowned for its rugged coastal scenery and the viewpoint at Kelinking is the perfect case in point. With its finger-like rock formations and winding track down to the beach, the spot has fast become an Insta sensation.
Wild but beautiful Tembeling Beach is also worth a visit. The trek to get there — through lush tropical jungle and via natural pools carved into the rocks — is half the fun!
Finally, divers should be sure to check out Manta Point. It’s one of the most famous dive sites in the area, and the best place to swim with schools of majestic manta rays.
Tours and Activities in Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan, and Penida
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Useful Links
- Looking for the best flight deals to Bali? Compare prices on Skyscanner
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- For the best Bali holiday packages, check out today's Luxury Escapes deals.
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- Download the Grab app. It's your reliable app for transportation, food delivery, and more.
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